Investigation of Upper Extremity Functionality in Adolescent Patients with Idiopathic Scoliosis Undergoing Scoliosis Surgery

Abstract

Objective: The effect of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) on shoulder dysfunction andupper limb functionality is still not poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigatethe effects of AIS on upper extremity functionality and quality of life.Methods: Thirty-seven patients who had undergone surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis participated in this study. Upper extremity functionality was evaluated using Turkishversion of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH-T) questionnaire, handgrip strength Jamar hand dynamometer, and health-related quality of life was assessed usingSF-36, and Scoliosis Research Society-22r Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire (SRS22).Results: The mean age of the patients was 17.08±2.96 years and the mean follow-up period was 34.44±25.37 months. The average DASH-T score was found 14.79±17.35. Patientsquality of life scores was good level. The average right hand grip strength was 19.84±8.89kg while left hand grip strength was 18.97±8.01 kg. There was no statistically significant difference between right and left hand grip strength (p=0.67). There was a moderate negativecorrelation with DASH-T and SRS-22 pain (r=-0.46, p=0.01) and SF-36 pain (r=0.54, p=0.01),and a weak positive correlation with SF-36 social function (r=-0.38, p=0.03). There was nostatistically significant relationship between Cobb angle (?) and SRS-22, SF-36, DASH-T andhand grip strength.Conclusion: Further studies may examine the effects of surgery on upper extremity functionality, hand-grip strength, and quality of life in patients with AIS using both objective andpatient-reported assessment tools.